Do I need a permit to replace my electrical panel in New Brunswick?

Do You Need a Permit to Replace an Electrical Panel in New Brunswick?

Yes — a TSANB (Technical Safety Authority of New Brunswick) permit is absolutely required for any electrical panel replacement in New Brunswick. This is not optional and there are no exceptions for homeowners doing the work themselves. The permit requirement applies whether you are upgrading from 100A to 200A, replacing a recalled panel, or simply swapping a panel in the same location with the same amperage.

How the Permit Process Works

Application — Your electrician (or you, if doing it yourself as a homeowner) applies to TSANB for an electrical installation permit. Applications can be submitted online through TSANB's portal or in person at their offices in Fredericton (main office), Moncton, or Saint John.

Permit fee — For a panel replacement, the typical permit fee is $75-$150. If the panel replacement includes a service size upgrade (e.g., 100A to 200A) that also requires NB Power to modify their connection, the permit scope increases and the fee may be $150-$250.

Work proceeds — Once the permit is issued, the electrical work can begin. For a straightforward panel swap, this is typically a 1-day job.

Inspection — After the work is complete, a TSANB inspector must inspect the installation before it is energized (or before the cover goes back on the panel). You or your electrician calls TSANB to schedule the inspection. In the Moncton, Saint John, and Fredericton areas, inspections are usually available within 2-5 business days. Rural areas may take slightly longer.

Certificate — If the installation passes inspection, TSANB issues a certificate of compliance. This document is important — your insurance company may request it, and it becomes part of the property's electrical record.

What the Inspector Checks

• Panel is properly rated and CSA approved
• All connections are torqued to manufacturer specifications
• Wire sizing matches breaker ratings on every circuit
• Grounding electrode system is complete and properly bonded
• AFCI breakers installed on bedroom circuits (required by current CEC even when replacing a panel — this catches many homeowners off guard)
• GFCI protection present for bathroom, kitchen, laundry, garage, and exterior circuits
• Panel is accessible with proper working clearance (minimum 1 metre in front, 750mm wide)
• Circuit directory is complete and accurate
• Meter base and service entrance are in acceptable condition

Common Reasons Panels Fail Inspection

• Missing AFCI breakers on bedroom circuits — the current Canadian Electrical Code requires AFCI protection for bedrooms, and when you replace a panel, the new installation must meet current code requirements. AFCI breakers cost $40-$60 each and you typically need 2-4 for bedroom circuits. Budget an extra $80-$240
• Double-tapped breakers — two wires landed on one breaker terminal. This is a common shortcut that inspectors catch immediately
• Improper bonding — the neutral bus and ground bus must be bonded at the main panel (and separated at sub-panels)
• Insufficient working clearance — panels installed in tight closets or behind storage may not meet the 1-metre clearance requirement

What Happens If You Skip the Permit

The consequences are significant:

• Insurance — If an electrical fire originates at an unpermitted panel installation, your home insurance claim can be denied. New Brunswick insurance companies routinely investigate fire origins and check for TSANB compliance.
• Sale complications — When selling your home, a home inspector will note the panel replacement. Buyers and their lawyers will ask for the TSANB certificate. No certificate means the buyer can demand a new permitted installation or reduce their offer by $3,000-$5,000.
• Fines — TSANB can issue fines for unpermitted electrical work. While enforcement is complaint-driven, a disgruntled neighbour, tenant, or insurance adjuster can trigger an investigation.
• Safety — The inspection exists because panel installations done incorrectly kill people. Loose connections, improper wire sizing, and missing safety devices cause fires and electrocution. Even experienced DIYers make mistakes that an inspector would catch.

Can Homeowners Replace Their Own Panel?

New Brunswick law allows homeowners to perform electrical work on their own single-family residence. However, a panel replacement involves working on energized conductors (the service entrance cables remain live even when the main breaker is off — only NB Power can de-energize those) which makes this one of the most dangerous electrical jobs possible. Most homeowners should hire a licensed electrician.

If you do choose to do it yourself, you MUST still obtain the TSANB permit, have NB Power disconnect service before you begin (call 1-800-663-6272 to schedule, typically 2-3 business days notice), and schedule the TSANB inspection afterward.

Cost of a Panel Replacement

A licensed electrician in New Brunswick typically charges:

• 100A to 200A upgrade (most common): $2,500 - $4,500
• Same-size panel swap (e.g., replacing a recalled panel): $1,500 - $2,500
• Panel relocation (moving to a different wall): $3,000 - $5,500

These prices include the TSANB permit, panel hardware, breakers, labour, and inspection coordination. Get at least 3 quotes from TSANB licensed electricians in your area.

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